Is This True Religious Freedom?

Since 1996, there has been an illegal ban placed on the practice of Dorje Shugden. Ever since then, there have been many who suffered because of this religious embargo. This ban has caused families, and friends to split and not be able to have any form of communication and it has caused a lot of distress to both Tibetans and non-Tibetans for no reason other than their practice Dorje Shugden.

It is definitely retrogressive and backward to have such things to be happening in this age and time. We are already in the 21st century yet, the actions of this religious ban is more reminiscent of the dark ages.

In the following passages we see some of the points that reveal how unethical the ban on Dorje Shugden is.

#1

When the ban was made known to the public, Gelug monastic communities were forced to split, and monks were coerced to give up their practices. Monasteries like Gaden and Sera monastery were forcibly divided and monks who were not willing to give up their Dorje Shugden practices unfairly expelled. H.H. the Dalai Lama shockingly was the one who personally instigated the purge, and He inflamed the monasteries even more by stating that monasteries must definitely throw out Shugden monks otherwise He will not be pleased.

Surely the actions and directions of H.H. the Dalai Lama itself is clear proof of a religious ban. If there was no ban being imposed, why would there be a need to throw the monks out of the monasteries which were their only homes? Why marginalise them? Whether a monk gives up on the practice of Dorje Shugden or not, should be a personal and voluntary decision and not one made under duress. Yet the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) forces the monks to swear out of the practice. It only shows how bigoted CTA is, how they try to harm Dorje Shugden practitioners, and push them to the limits. Many monks had no choice but to disrobe.

How is it justifiable for people to say that there is no ban when in 2008 the monks from Gaden and Sera monasteries were forced out and had to no choice but to form new monasteries, Shar Ganden and Serpom Monastery, under the protection of Indian law just so that they can continue with their Protector practice. Some people might argue that with Shugden monks being able to form their own monasteries and be independent, it can only mean that there is no ban because if there were to be a ban, these monks will not be able to form their own monasteries. However, when we think on a deeper level, we will see that there is actually no reason for these Dorje Shudgen monks to break away from their mother monasteries to form a new monastery to do their practices. It is from the fact that these monks do not have that form of freedom that forces them to go on a separate way to keep their practice. In addition, the formation of Shar Ganden and Serpom was not due to the good graces of the CTA but because of the rights provided under Indian law. Had it been up to them, the CTA would criminalise the Protector practice as they eventually did in 2014.

To add salt to the wound, these monks that are Dorje Shugden practitioners are denied the Geshe Lharampa degree (the equivalent of a PhD. in Buddhist Philosophy) regardless of how qualified they might be. This is because existing Gelug universities refused to issue Geshe degrees to Shugden monks as a means discouraging the protector practice.

Shugden monks were denied even basic needs such as education. It was only through the hard work, compassion, effort and diligence of dedicated high lamas and monks of the Dorje Shugden tradition, that the new Gelug Buddhist University in Mysore was established in the year 2015, enabling Shugden monks to complete their monastic education. This new Buddhist University today is the alternative higher learning monastic institution that issues certificates to qualified Geshe from Shar Ganden and Serpom who were previously prohibited from undertaking the Geshe Lharampa training due solely to their Shugden practice. In this way, the pure tradition of Lama Tsongkhapa is being kept alive.

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#2

With H.H. the Dalai Lama being a practitioner of Buddhism and a key figure that many people look up to, you would think that there would not be any form of discrimination from Him. Yet, in all teachings given by H.H. the Dalai Lama, you will see that on the application or registration forms for the event, they place information saying that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not allowed to join the programs. It just leaves one to wonder why there is such blatant discrimination. Essentially, what the Dalai Lama and organisers are saying is that you may be a criminal, a person of ill morals or you may even be a satan worshipper and you’re welcome to attend the Dalai Lama events, but you cannot be a Dorje Shugden practitioners.

If it is true that the practice of Dorje Shugden is really so bad, why does the Dalai Lama in his compassion not allow Shugden worshippers in so that they are able to learn and turn away from the supposed ‘evil’ practices of Dorje Shugden? It clearly shows not only that there is discrimination against Dorje Shugden practitioners, but also that ban and marginalization is totally opposite to what H.H. the Dalai Lama is supposed to be upholding. If there was no ban and if there is no effort to marginalize a community of Buddhist simply because of their protector practice, then surely everyone will be allowed to join the teaching by H.H. Dalai Lama and organisers will not have the clause in their application form.

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#3

Instead of being protected by the CTA , the CTA criminalizes their own people just because of their religious practices. On 20th May 2014, the CTA published a list titled, “List of Dolgyal followers who protested against His Holiness the Dalai Lama in US and Europe” on their official website. In the list, are names and details of 20 Tibetans who legally demonstrated against H.H. Dalai Lama in Europe and USA, which is merely exercising their rights. The full names and pictures of these people were published and made available to the public and at the same time the CTA constantly propagandized that Shugden practitioners were traitors of the Tibetan cause knowing that by posting these details the Tibetan community will do something against those on the list. Some of the protesters, even details like their house address were published.

How can the CTA be regarded as fair and democratic and reliable government when the Tibetan people they govern live in fear merely by practicing their faith which is supposed to be protected by the CTA? It is in no way correct to have any citizen treated like a criminal just because their choice of religion.

Due to all these posters and ‘Wanted List’, the Tibetans who practiced Dorje Shugden still live in fear as they were maligned by their own government to be traitors of the people. This is another method the CTA deploys to push innocent Tibetans to give up their Dorje Shugden practice if they do not want their family to be harmed. It is utterly wrong for any government to be pushing their citizens about their choice of religion. It is like saying that because of the colour of the skin of a citizen they can be punished and ostracized. How can control and be punished for the conditions there were born into or something they are supposed to have the right to? Only the most oppressive and dictatorial regimes act against citizens because of their religion.

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#4

There have been many instances where Dorje Shugden practitioners were attacked both physically and on the social media for their practices. If there is really religious freedom, will attacks on monks and lay people be happening? There is not doubt that this discriminations and attacks are happening. The question is why isn’t the CTA supposedly a democratic government or H.H. Dalai Lama, supposedly an icon of peace and tolerance. Saying anything to stop these ongoing abuses? The simple reason is the CTA hopes that these peer pressure that is being exerted on Shugden people regardless of whether they are peaceful or violent will make Shugden practitioners abandon their faith. And so the CTA are blind to these abuses.

If there is truly no ban, why do we hear news of people breaking into a Lama’s house to attack monks in the residence? On the 27th December 2013 at 4.00am an assistant to His Holiness Trijang Rinpoche (one of the lineage lamas to Dorje Shudgen practices) Gen Chonze, was making water offerings in Trijang Ladrang in Shar Gaden Monastery. Gen Chonze was then 84 years old and had been serving Trijang Rinpoche’s previous incarnation and the current incarnation for over 60 years. Gen Chonze is a simple monk and has resided in Trijang Ladrang most of his life. While making the offerings he heard a loud bang on the gate. Thinking that its practitioners coming to make prayers he then opened the door only to see five masked and gloved men armed with knives barging in to attack him. Gen Chonze had no enemies and the only reason he was attacked was because of his Shugden practice and yet the CTA insists that there are no ban and persecutions of Shugden people.

These violence and abuses against Shugden lamas and laypeople are not limited to physical violence. Almost daily Dorje Shudgen practitioners receive hate messages and threats and abuses. Why is there such hatred when the Shugden practice does not harm anyone? If the CTA claims that the Tibetan people have religious freedom, then situations like this should not be happenning. There wouldn’t be hatred fuelled by the CTA against others because of their religious practice. Hatred towards Dorje Shugden practitioners is not only only by Tibetans, but also by Westerners whose love of the Dalai Lama is being used to fuel hatred against Shugden worshippers by cunning propaganda.

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Tibetans being able to write such nasty things yet they have a picture of H.H. the Dalai Lama. Click to enlarge.

Because of the Dorje Shugden ban, look at westerners such as Patricia Snodgrass that hints that she will do things to make sure Kechara or Tsem Rinpoche receive physical harm. Click to enlarge.

#5

Monasteries and temples are places for worship. Thus there is absolutely no excuse or sense for anyone to be going there to attack monks just because they do Dorje Shugden practices. How is it right for the CTA to be paying people to create violence against Dorje Shudgen practitioners when they instead sponsor all monasteries regardless of the Protector of the monastery if indeed the CTA us truly about preserving the lineage of what Buddha had taught. Why is it that only monasteries that do not practice Dorje Shugden get funding for their works? Does not Dorje Shudgen monasteries teach the Buddhadharma as well? The only reason for them to not give Dorje Shudgen monasteries funding is because the CTA hopes that without any form of funding, these monasteries will have no choice but to close down and not continue with their practices of Dorje Shudgen.

In the video below, it clearly shows violence against monks in Gaden Monastery (Dokhang house) as they were performing prayers and puja to Dorje Shugden. The mob which consisted of paid Tibetan threw stones at monks even as they did their monthly prayers. This mob was organized by representatives of Dalai Lama in Mungod, South India. Clearly Dorje Shugden practitioners are being treated like criminals. Many of those monks were physically hurt.

#6

Due to the ban on Dorje Shugden, there are many lay people as well who have been affected by the ban. Either they are similarly placed on a ‘Wanted List’ or the CTA imposes such pressure on their families they literally become disowned by the family. All these are happening only because the non-Dorje Shugden people are afraid to be associated with Dorje Shudgen practitioners seeing that it is a crime just to be associated with a Shugden believer.

Many times, when Dorje Shugden people meet even their closest childhood friends, they would be shunned and avoided. For fear of being associated with Dorje Shugden practitioners. Any association with Dorje Shugden practitioners, could lead to people being suspected and questioned.

In the videos below, you will see how some of the Tibetans are being denied their basic rights just because they practice Dorje Shudgen.

#7

Constantly we see evidence of separation between non-Dorje Shugden practitioners and Dorje Shugden practitioners. Why this is necessary is so that Dorje Shugden practitioners will be singled out from the crowd. This is done in order for the public to easily target those whom the CTA accuse of being against H.H. Dalai Lama and the CTA with the motivation that the public will then take actions against Dorje Shugden practitioners to stop them. Usually with these kind separation the public would coerce the Dorje Shugden practitioners to give up their practices in various ways including violent means. Stones would be thrown into their homes, and people would break in to beat them, and so on.

Another example of CTA sponsored discrimination can be seen in Sera Jey Monastery where there is a rule requiring monks to wear a badge to declare that they do not practice Dorje Shugden. Why create such a differentiation if there is no ban to the practice?

Why isolate Shugden monks and expose them to more danger unless it is to punish them?

Official statement released from Sera Jey Monastery that they are implementing the badge system to show that they are non-Dorje Shudgen practitioners. Click to enlarge.

#8

Often when one walks around the Tibetan settlements in India, they will be able to see notices saying that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not allowed to enter their premises. Due to this, Dorje Shugden monks are forced to go well out of the way just to get basic necessities and provisions. This makes the lives of Dorje Shugden practitioners much harder and more troublesome when it is already difficult.

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This ban is not just making the lives of Dorje Shugden practitioners more difficult in this way, but in medical clinics and hospitals, there are notices that do not allow Dorje Shugden practitioners to enter. Being a non-Tibetan, we may not understand why the ban is so serious, yet from this we can tell that even the most basic of healthcare are being withheld some Tibetans just because of their religion. Thus, the Tibetans who practice Dorje Shugden will have to go to Indian clinics or hospitals to receive medical help. Often these medical services cost more than healthcare that are provided in the Tibetan settlement camps. Thus, for the poorer Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners, they are excluded from any form of healthcare. This shows that even from the most basic necessity that the government should be providing are denied just because these people are Dorje Shugden practitioners.

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#9

Being a government that claims to looks after their citizens, CTA has been grossly dishonest towards the Tibetans living in exile. In the constitution, it is clearly stated that every Tibetan has a right to their religion. However, the CTA undermine what they are supposed to be upholding by directing government departments to prohibit Shugden people from working in their department. Why does the CTA claim that there is religious freedom, when it is seen everywhere that Dorje Shugden practitioners are suppressed throughout all Tibetan areas?

A part of the constitution that says all have religious freedom. Click to enlarge.

Official letter from the Department of Health saying that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not welcomed. Click to enlarge.

The CTA has also done nothing to stop letters that incite violence or hatred against Dorje Shugden practitioners. If there is no ban and there is religious freedom like what the CTA has claimed, why are they not doing anything to stop these violent threads and acts against Dorje Shugden practitioners? This is especially so if H.H. the Dalai Lama were to speak against such undharmic acts. Yet, neither H.H. the Dalai Lama or the CTA have addressed the problem and instead keep saying that Dorje Shugden practices are bad.

Below are the pictures to the letter from Unite Front of Tibetan People saying that need to teach Dorje Shugden practitioners both lay people or ordained members a lesson.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 1). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 2). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 3). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 4). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 5). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 6). Click to enlarge.

Letter from the United Front of the Tibetan People (Page 7). Click to enlarge.

Below is another letter from Global Tibetan Volunteers For the Truth that show the kind of hatred that Dorje Shudgen practitioners receive.

Letter from Global Tibetan Volunteers For the Truth (Page 1). Click to enlarge.

Letter from Global Tibetan Volunteers For the Truth (Page 2). Click to enlarge.

Letter from Global Tibetan Volunteers For the Truth (Page 3). Click to enlarge.

#10

For the Tibetans who have chosen not to give up their Dorje Shudgen practices, they are being denied a citizenship from the Tibetan government. With this, there are many things that they are not able to do. For example, they will not be able to vote in the recent Sikyong (leader of CTA) elections. The selection of the leaders is something that affects all citizens, yet because these Tibetans are Dorje Shudgen practitioners, they are precluded.

These Tibetans are not allowed to vote because they do not have proof of Tibetan citizenship vide a Green Card issued by the CTA. When they do not have a green card, they are not allowed to do many things that include getting documentations to travel commonly known as the ‘yellow pass’ (similar to a passport). These are all because they are Dorje Shugden practitioners. By right, these Tibetans should be able to become citizens of the country they are in instead of being refugees all their lives which is how the CTA wishes them to remain. Without a Green Card, they cannot do anything.

Yet, this is the case with all Dorje Shugden practitioners in the Tibetan settlements. It will be a problem for Shugden practitioners to travel anywhere when they do not have the “No Objections” letter from the CTA which is required for any Tibetan to travel abroad. The reason for CTA to do this is because they do not want Dorje Shudgen practitioners to be able to travel out so that they will have the chance to spread the teachings about Dorje Shugden, and they do not want to let the rest of the world know how much Dorje Shudgen practitioners are suffering.

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Even for monks, before their monk identity cards are being issued to them, they will have to swear saying that they do not practice Dorje Shugden. Without these identity cards, it would be difficult for the monks to travel overseas to teach. This is because they will not be able to obtain a religious visa to start teaching in the other countries. These are all tactics that the CTA use to stop the practice of Dorje Shugden from spreading overseas. It is just really sad to see such things happening as it is very clearly a form of religious oppression, and it is not what a government should be doing towards their own citizens.

Statement from Gaden Jangtse Monastery. Click to enlarge.

Statement from Sera Mey and Sera Jey Monastery. Click to enlarge.

In conclusion, this ban on Dorje Shudgen does not only affect Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners, but it affects all Dorje Shugden practitioners.

Just take for an example, when a man in the audience during a talk by Samdhong Rinpoche in New York City, USA, asked a question alluding to unfairness towards Shugden practitioners, he was stopped immediately and taken out of the hall. This man in the video is not Tibetan and yet we see how the ban has spread to affect even those who are rightful citizens of a democratic country. It shows how the CTA has influenced others to oppress Dorje Shudgen practitioners as well.

Even for myself, as a Singaporean, who is not fully exposed to the severity and depths of the discrimination. I have received abuses online, and people calling me a Chinese as if that is a negative thing. How is anyone suppose to change when the race and religion is something that they are born with. It makes no sense how some westerners that supports CTA and some Tibetans act towards Dorje Shugden practitioners no matter where they are from.

Example of some abuse that I have received online. Click to enlarge.

Tweet abuse that I have received from someone that claims to be a Buddhist. Click to enlarge.

Even in Singapore, there are temples like Thekchen Choling that openly display notices saying that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not welcome in their premises. Yet, Singapore is a country that promotes religious freedom and racial harmony. For major events in Singapore, all representatives of the 8 major religions in Singapore would gather together to celebrate and offer prayers. But here we see a Singaporean organization discriminating against Singaporean citizens on the instructions of the CTA. Where is the sense in that and how can that be allowed to persist?

Because of the Dalai Lama and CTA’s influence I was chased out from a shop located at Fu Lu Shou Shopping centre all because I asked if they were able to help me make a acrylic cover for a Dorje Shugden image that I had. I was cursed and chased out of the building. This is all because of the ban of Dorje Shugden. The funniest thing is that I am not even in a place that is filled with Tibetans. I am in my own homeland and in a shop that is owned by Singaporeans.

Tibetan Buddhist Centre, Thekchen Choling in Singapore openly displaying that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not welcomed in their temple grounds. Click to enlarge.

Close up of the notice placed at Thekchen Choling Singapore. Click to enlarge.

All religions coming together to do a prayer before the happening of F1 in Singapore.

Even in my neighbouring country Malaysia, evidence of the ban towards Dorje Shugden practitioners can be seen abundantly. It is just unfair for someone to be judge based on what they practice as their religious choice. We are all human beings that can make our own choices, so why is someone’s choice more superior to the choice that we make? Why is it that we cannot practice Dorje Shugden without being cursed. Everything that is happening and people who are suffering are all because of this unethical ban that has been imposed.

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About Vinnie Tan

Vinnie first met H.E. Tsem Rinpoche when she was five and has the good fortune to be connected since. Finding corporate jobs uninspiring, she is taking a few years off to learn and contribute in a Dharma environment.

She often shares that learning about Buddhism has given her a better roadmap to a fulfilling life. Vinnie is also a big fan of anything supernatural, from vampires to magic.

37 Responses to Is This True Religious Freedom?

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In this video, a nice couple is being targeted and attacked just because they are pagan faith. They are Wiccan and the nice lady is a practising elemental witch, but they are being perceived to be bad people and hurting children, although none of that is true and they are being attacked for their faith. This is also another example of what Dorje Shugden people go through especially in Dharamsala, India because the Tibetan Leadership has put a notice on their official site stating that Shugden practitioners are bad and demon worshippers which is completely untrue. Hence, daily Shugden practitioners are being persecuted and if you are not there in Dharamsala, you get online abuse like what H.E. Tsem Rinpoche receives daily as well as myself and other Kecharians who are openly practising what our Guru gave us.

Is this kind of discrimination and violence acceptable in this day and age when there is religious freedom? Why are these people allowed to do this crime? Why is the Tibetan Leadership acting like a dictatorship and attacking others of a different faith? They do it indirectly and encourage this hatred because they do nothing, say nothing and have a page talking against Shugden on their official website. That is a clear indication there is a ban and discrimination against Shugden people.

In this video is a police officer being discriminated for his Wiccan religion and he is going to sue the state because he was told it was mandatory for him to attend a Christian gathering. There is supposed to be freedom of religion, so why is it okay for a group of people to force other people to join, pray and believe their religion? And what gives them the authority to tell people what to believe or not to believe in? This is a dictatorship type of leadership, not a democratic one at all. And this is exactly the same question I would like to ask the Tibetan Leadership and those who come on our social media wall to abuse us and call us names and vulgarities because we practice Dorje Shugden. Watch what the guy says in the video.

I’ve just attached a video here on a lady reading about “the Persecution of Women in Witchcraft”. It is stated that in the early 16th century there was a mass execution of witchcraft. In the year 1515 in Geneva Switzerland, they burned 500 witches at the stake.In 1526, 1000 witches in Italy were executed. In 1571 witch hunt spreads across France.In total it is estimated from 1500 – 1600, there were 50 – 80,000 suspected witches executed.

Religious persecution in any way is wrong, look at how many lives were taken because people decide to discriminate on others and persecute them just because they do not follow your belief system. This is exactly what Dorje Shugden practitioners are facing today as well when the Tibetan leadership keeps on harping and silently encouraging their people to discriminate and ostracised Shugden practitioners which we can see from all the above online abuse. Is this okay in this 21st century, is this what H.H. the Dalai Lama advocates – religious tolerance? I think not.

Taken away the rights to purchase items for witchcraft is the same as burning the witch for practising their religion. It is just a manifestation of different types of witch hunt and banning the sale of certain items is the same as stopping them from practising a certain ritual that is the same as taking their rights away. This scenario is the same as what Dorje Shugden people face also.http://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1516798088.mp4

This is another proof of discrimination that is similar to Dorje Shugden people. The witchcraft people do not get to purchase their religious practise items online because there is no law that protects their rights on what they can purchase and what not they cannot.http://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1516797979.mp4

Despite the founding fathers’ effort to give Americans religious freedom, the Wiccans and Pagans are denied their right, such as to have Chaplains to perform ceremonies, receiving books and materials and so on in prison. It is not fair and this is the kind of discrimination Dorje Shugden practitioners faces. Tibetans in exile are supposed to be ruled under democracy, but they are denied their rights of religious freedom. This is not fair.

This is another example of religious discrimination. Wicca was accused to be related to Satan, which is not true. Wiccans are being rejected from being able to participate in the governmental system as they are not a member of the mainstream Judeo-Christian religion.Similarly, Dorje Shugden is accused to be a demon/ evil spirit, and that Shugden practitioners are not allowed to participate in the system – they cannot work in governmental jobs, they are denied travel documents, they are not denied medical treatment, and the members of the public are advised to not be associated with them.

This video shows how Christians in Nigeria face enormous persecution, similar to what Dorje Shugden people are facing.Just like what Bishop Mike Moses said in the video, they are being persecuted “in your own country, your own community”, and that’s worse than being persecuted by others.

This man’s dilemma is similar to what Dorje Shugden practitioners are experiencing. Even if the Dalai Lama has discouraged Dorje Shugden practice, those who choose to retain their practice should still have the right to do so without being penalized, without being discriminated, abused, attacked and harassed day in day out. Religious Freedom is every human’s right and should be respected, when the Tibetan Leadership stay silent when Shugden practitioners are being attacked, it is clear they condone it. So how can Tibetan Leadership claim to be democratic when they are not and how can they point the finger and blame others for human rights abuse when they do so themselves with their very own people? Illogical, injustice and unacceptable in this day and age!

This is similar to what Dorje Shugden practitioners are experiencing in Tibetan settlements. Once they are found out that they are a Dorje Shugden practitioner, they would be a target for discrimination (e.g., denied service in the public places), some even target attacked. And if you are not in Dharamsala, you will be targeted and attacked online with vulgarities and all kinds of derogatory slurs.

Any form of discrimination is wrong and should be discouraged and stopped. How can we discriminate people base on their religion, just because we dislike their religion? This is pure prejudice and hatred, so how can this be considered good and right for those executing such persecution? And this is exactly the same mentality the Tibetan Leadership has and encourage their people to attack Shugden practitioners. This is the kind of hatred that cause division, war, and suffering. How can one religion claim to be better than the other in the name of “God”? How can this be considered compassion?

Dear Vinnie,
Very well written and explained article of how Dorje Shugden practitioners are being treated. Interesting facts and evidence about the discrimination and the ban. Hope this ban would be lifted as soon as possible. Thank you Rinpoche and Vinnie for this intersting write up.👍🙏

Clearly Religion and Politic cannot mix. It creates havoc as in the case of Dorje Shugden persecution that is running for 20 long years, it separates family, friends, monasteries, gurus and create disharmony and disunity.

What a shame CTA claims to be democratic and instead of protecting her people it violates its own fundamental principle against religious freedom.

What a refreshing change! ‘Suzy in Hawaii’ who clearly can think for herself and see beyond her own old prejudice discovers the goodness and beauty of the Dorje Shugden practice. What an uplifting account from an honest and spiritual person- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s

Over 400 years ago a great and learned lama Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was famed in Mongolia, Tibet, Nepal and China for being very saintly and compassionate. He resided in his residence (Zimkhang Gongma Ladrang) in Drepung Monastery. His root guru was H.H. the Omniscient 4th Panchen Lama and his close dharma brother was the 5th Dalai Lama.

The 5th Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen had a very close and dharmic relationship and often went to receive teachings together from the 4th Panchen Lama. They were close in age. They both became very learned and well known. During this time, the Dalai Lama was enthroned as a Dharma King of Tibet. But more people went to see Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen for teachings, initiations and divinations. This made the attendants of the 5th Dalai Lama feel threatened that Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s fame might usurp the power of the 5th Dalai Lama. So they had a khata forced down his throat. At that moment, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen dissolved his psychic winds and generated the wish to be a great guardian of Buddha and Tsongkapa’s teachings. As his consciousness dissolved, he entered ‘bardo’ as a dharma protector of the highest order (jikten depey sungma). Many signs were seen throughout Lhasa at this time and the earth was said to have shaken in Lhasa. This event was already predicted to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s previous incarnation when he was one of the 8 main disciples of Lord Tsongkapa the Supreme Master and he served Tsongkapa directly by building Gaden Monastery.

When the 5th Dalai Lama heard what his scheming and power-hungry attendants had done, he was very distressed. He was very sorry Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was murdered and dishonored as he was a great dharma master. The 5th Dalai Lama composed an apology to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen. In Lhasa, tens of thousands gathered for the cremation of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s holy body. During the cremation, the 5th Dalai Lama’s apology was read out at which flames spontaneously arose from the body of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen commencing the cremation. From the body, during cremation, a powerful whirlwind of smoke tunneled into the sky for all to see as this was an indication Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s consciousness has arisen as the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. The Dharma Protector Setrap immediately recognized this new protector Dorje Shugden and ‘enthroned’ him as a powerful Dharma Protector in the realm of the Buddhas. From this, Setrap and Dorje Shugden are closely connected and very close working hand in hand always. After the cremation, the great 5th Dalai Lama built a Dorje Shugden chapel on the spot the cremation took place and named it Trode Khangsar. The 5th Dalai Lama commissioned the statue of Dorje Shugden in this chapel and had monks installed in the chapel to do continuous propitiations to Dorje Shugden. Trode Khangsar Chapel was a commemoration to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who was wronged and also a celebration of his consciousness arising as the World Peace Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.

This Trode Khangsar Chapel still exists now in Lhasa where many make pilgrimages there. It is in good condition and was recently renovated. It is over 400 years old and a testimony to the respect the Great 5th Dalai Lama had to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who arose as Dorje Shugden.

I have visited this holy chapel in Lhasa years back. I’ve never heard of it till I was in Lhasa and by chance, I was told about it which I was happy to visit. I could not find the place but strangely a bunch of pilgrims from Amdo told me they would show me how to get there in Lhasa.

This short video is a short clip of this holy Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa today commemorating Dorje Shugden, built by the great 5th Dalai Lama. The great 5th Dalai Lama even composed a prayer to Dorje Shugden which is still available today and we can recite to invoke the blessings, protection, and assistance of World Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.

HUM
Though unmoving from the sphere of primordial spontaneity,
With wrathful turbulent power, swifter than lightning,
Endowed with heroic courage to judge good and bad,
I invite you with faith, please come to this place!

Robes of a monk, crown adorned with rhinoceros leather hat,
Right hand holds ornate club, left holds a human heart,
Riding various mounts such as nagas and garudas,
Who subdues the mamos of the charnel grounds, praise to you!

Samaya substances, offerings and torma, outer, inner and secret,
Favourite visual offerings and various objects are arranged.
Although, previously, my wishes were a bit dense,
Do not stop your powerful apparitions, I reveal and confess!

Now respectfully praising with body, speech, and mind,
For us, the masters, disciples, benefactors and entourages,
Provide the good and avert the bad!
Bring increase like the waxing moon in spiritual and temporal realms!

Moreover, swiftly accomplishing all wishes,
According to our prayers, bestow the supreme effortlessly!
And like the jewel that bestows all wishes,
Always protect us with the Three Jewels!

This article summarizes many example of persecution and discrimination on Dorje Shudgen people. That the ‘advice’ from the Dalai Lama created so much disruption to the Gelug monasteries and institution, Tibetans and practitioners of Je Tsongkhapa’s tradition.

Dorje Shudgen is not a mere spirit, but a Buddha which is why despite many lamas trying to harm, destroy it with fire pujas, Dorje Shudgen is still here protecting sincere practitioners of Dorje Shudgen and Lamas.

I thought my religion is free to be practice by anyone…….until I discovered it is a banned religion. The ban is by the supposedly “head” of the religion.

My religion in Vajrayana Buddhism of the Gelug denomination and in particular the Lineage that stems from Pabongka Rinpoche to my Guru Tsem Rinpoche. The supposed head of Tibetan Buddhism is His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama…at least he is the regarded as the secular head. Each of the 4 major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, the Gelug, Nyingma, Sakya and Kagyu have their own spiritual head but the since the 5th Dalai Lama, the house of the Dalai Lama has assumed control of the politics and by extension spiritual control of these schools.

Since 1996, the Dalai Lama imposed a ban of the Protector Dorje Shugden practiced by my Lineage as passed on by Gurus to disciples; resulting in the practitioners being marginalised and causing much sufferings as this article testifies to.

The main points here are that in Tibetan Buddhism, since its founding by Padmasambhava, the disciples received practices from their Gurus and the practices cannot be stopped unless given permission by the Guru; and the Guru is the root all attainments meaning the relationship with the Guru is the most important aspect of the practice. Hence, if the Guru have passed on, the practice cannot be stopped.
As such, with the Dalai Lama’s ban, many practitioners cannot stop the practice because of these 2 reasons, i.e., either their Gurus have passed on; or the Gurus’ Gurus have passed on or more importantly it will break the “samaya” or spiritual relationship with the Guru.

As the majority of Dorje Shugden practitioners have Gurus other than the Dalai Lama, who passed the practice to them ; the Dalai Lama cannot stop, much less ban the practice given by others’ Gurus. All spiritual reasons given by the Dalai Lama can be refuted logically easily; leaving only politics to be the only reason for the ban. Furthermore, there are other religion practiced by Tibetan i.e. Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Bon etc, and is not banned, the ban of the Dorje Shugden practice is a form of targeted political persecution and impediment on the freedom of the practice of religion.

Dorje Shugden devotees either monastic or lay practitioners are not fanatical nor that there is not basis for their devotion in propitiating this Buddha Protector. However, there is so much discrimination against them that as being Dorje Shugden practitioners who practise with compassion and harmony have kept quiet about all the sufferings that they have endured.

I rejoice that this article has articulately put forwards the 10 points detailing the “laws” and prohibitions against Dorje Shugden devotees and if read with fairness in mind, the BAN is real and must be removed.

May the BAN be lifted so that Tibetan Buddhism will fall in line with democratic 21st century.

Thank you Shane for your comment. The picture that you have posted really speaks a thousand words. It is indeed true that this religious persecution by the CTA has been on going for so long. There is no ending to this situation.

What the CTA have done and is doing is really horrible. They do things that are behind the scenes to create trouble for Dorje Shugden practitioners. They have split so many friends and family members. This persecution should stop immediately and not carry on anymore.

Well said Louise. Whatever that is done by the CTA is inhumane. If as the citizens of a certain country/state we cannot rely on our own government, then who else can we rely on.

It is just like when we are overseas, anything happens, we will go to our own embassies. Reason being that it is the right for us as citizens to get help from our government when we do not know where to go. However, for the case of these Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners, they have no where to go or no one to look after them. They are no one just because they practice Dorje Shugden. Why, it is simply because their governments do not recognise them due to the fact that they are Dorje Shugden practitioners. It is sad in that way that their government does things like this to sabotage their own citizens.

The Dalai Lama has said that there was no violence against Dorje Shugden monk, but the 27th december attack proved him wrong. The attack couldn’t have been something which some random outsiders did, but rather members/allies of the CTA. The CTA has a reputation for organizing attacks on Dorje Shugden Monasteries and people.

The Dalai Lama claims that there is no ban, but yet Dorje Shugden monks are restricted from buying provisions from stores. As a result of this monks sometimes have to travel long distances just to get provisions. Often the distance to bigger towns are too far to travel by foot and thus the monks have to hire a rickshaw to ferry them to the bigger towns, hiring a rickshaw means that the monks have to fork out extra money for the ride to the town and the ride back.

Those are just a few of the problems the Dorje Shugden monks face daily and there are many more problems which I haven’t even mentioned yet.

To the CTA: Please end the cruelty to Dorje Shugden monks and restore harmony and unity to the community.

Nice comment Pavara Lam. You write well and should write more. Like hearing your thoughts and what you said is absolutely true about how the ban has affected the lives of Shugden people on a daily basis. How can something so simple as to going to a sundry shop become such a problematic issue? And yet they keep saying there is no ban on Shugden. Like real! If there really was no ban then why is buying your daily necessities becomes impossible? Like you said, this is just one example how the ban on Dorje Shugden has affected so many people.

Very well written Pavara. It is true that with what the CTA claims and what is happening is all not true. Yet, there are so many evidence that is constantly around us that proves otherwise.

Even from the very fact that monks are being thrown out of their monasteries show that there is a ban. It is a very good question to constantly have in our minds to think why is it said that there is no ban when the Dorje Shugden practitioners’ basic rights are all removed.

Very well-written and explained article of how Dorje Shugden practitioners are being treated. We are in the 21st century. We are in the NOW. We are in such advanced times..yet Tibetans and other nationals are still stuck in their old mindset of discrimination.

Reminds me of how Black people were discriminated by White people in USA a very LONG time ago. Even US have moved way past discrimination. In this modern age of free speech, free rights.. CTA is sure doing a good job of “that”.

I agree with you totally how Dorje Shugden practitioners in India and denied of their basic necessity, basic healthcare and basic welfare to be care of. Shows clearly the mentality of the ruling government of CTA.

Even Satan worshippers, or worshippers of the occult are given more freedom and less ostracisation from others.

If my Lord Buddha Dorje Shugden is treated as a spirit, why haven’t the people who practiced His practice fought back? Why are they the ones being hurt, hacked, thrown stones at, given verbal abuses? Satan worshippers played / sacrificed certain individuals. Have Dorje Shugden practitioners done so? The only thing I have seen so far are that they kept quiet, practiced diligently what their Guru told them, showed peaceful demonstrations through LEGAL means, and nothing at ALL to harm others WHO harmed them.

They are a better display of what TRUE BUDDHISTS should behave.

I do implore everyone to think TRULY of how an actual FREEDOM should be like.

Thank you so much for your comment Edwin. It is very true that with times being so advanced, yet we Dorje Shugden practitioners still receive so much hate everywhere. People may say that by looking at countries that are not as advanced, we are being biased with the situation of them having discrimination against one group of people. Yet, we can examine first world countries like UK where there are people doing the same thing. Protesting against centres that do Dorje Shudgen practices.

Thank you for this well presented post that clearly indicates the existence of a very damaging ban on Dorje Shugden. The explanations are very clear and detailed. Most importantly, solid evidence is provided for readers to see for themselves and decide what is the right thing to do.

Dorje Shugden practitoners have consistently presented their case in this manner: respectful of the intelligence of the public by presenting information and open communication. Unfortunately, I have not experienced the same from the CTA and their anti- Shugden followers. They blatantly deny facts despite evidence presented by internatonal journalists. They also do not provide supporting points or evidence to substantiate their denial. This is true acts of arrogance, they could not care less for what others do. Maybe it is becuase they have gotten what they want for themselves and it does not matter to them what happens to Tibet and Tibetans from here on.

Thank you Vinnie for this well written article on the discrimination on Dorje Shugden practitioners due to the ban by HH Dalai Lama. So much unnecessary sufferings had been lambasted onto the Dorje Shugden practitioners.
There are so many logical evidences that His Holiness is wrong in imposing the ban and yet his followers do not question this blatant wrongness. I remember Buddha Shakyamuni had taught that we should question if we are not comfortable with something. Does that mean that the followers of His Holiness are comfortable in this terrible wrongness and the terrible deeds that followed.
His Holiness, a recipient of the Noble Peace Prize, always preaches compassion and love for all. And yet, he could segregate Dorje Shugden practitioners from “all”. What more, his ardent followers could use such vulgarity, force and threats as upholders of Buddha’s teachings???
Sad indeed that Buddhism has been degenerated to this state by His Holiness’s ban and his followers.
With folded hands, may His Holiness swiftly manifest his true nature and bring a halt to this degeneration by lifting the Dorje Shugden ban and reuniting all true practitioners.
Thank you H.E Tsem Rinpoche for bringing us the truth in your gentle compassion even in the face of so much horrible barrage of vulgarity towards you.

Thank you Sofi for your comment. It is really amazing how some people will choose specifically on what to follow and what not to follow. What they are doing and claiming as Buddhist ways are all not true. The Buddha has never thought us violence. What is being taught to us is how to have transformation and be a better person.

Yet, when these people criticise and look down upon Dorje Shugden practitioners. They are not even following what H.H. the Dalai Lama has taught us. In no teaching of H.H. the Dalai Lama will we find information that is said to show violence towards others. It is always about love, kindness and compassion.

Thus, it is ridiculous for some non-Dorje Shugden practitioners to carry out what they are doing in H.H. the Dalai Lama’s name. Reason being that what is done by them and what is taught, does not match. By the end of the day, with what they are doing, it will only push people away from H.H. the Dalai Lama.

Thank you for summarising up all the evidence and logical points of how this “advice” against Dorje Shugden Practice from the Dalai Lama is indeed a Ban.

This ban had been tearing the Buddhist community apart in a very ugly way. Buddhism are suppose to promote love and peace and not discrimination and segregation. Even if we do not agree to another person’s belief system, we still respect them because that’s what Buddha taught 2600 years ago. We don’t go around telling Christians or Muslims off because we respect them. But why when it comes to Shugden issue, we have to act so harshly and not to mention that we all are in the same religion.

This Ban is illogical and do more harm than good. Any reasonable and non-fanatic Buddhist would be able to see clearly the whole situation even if they are not Shugden practitioners and the ban doesn’t affects them.

Thank you for your comment. It is true that as a shugden practitioner, we are always being put in a spot where we are being criticised by our faith. Yet, when we speak up about it, others criticise us for being rude when we do not mean so. What we want to do is only to have religious freedom and not have others criticising what we do. It is a natural reaction that when someone speaks negatively about something or some quality we care, we will retaliate. So, why is it that for others they can do that, but when Dorje Shugden practitioners do that we are rude and violent? It makes no sense at all.

All I hope is for more people to know how Dorje Shudgen practitioners are affected by this ban that is being imposed because of an advice from H.H. Dalai Lama.

I mean no disrespect to H.H. Dalai lama and I respect him fully. I just hope that this ban will be lifted so that all Dorje Shugden practitioners do not have to suffer any further.

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Lin Mun

Wednesday, Feb 21. 2018 09:35 PM

Thank you Rinpoche for this teaching and reminder. We always think we have so much time and concentrate so much in making our body look good and using it to generate wealth which in the end didn’t bring us anything happiness that can last long. We should in fact use our temporary body to work on bringing benefit on others and to generate more merits that can help ourselves and others. Hence we should do more dharma and not waste our time on unnecessary things that will attract us into more worldly actions.

The title ‘Great Scholar’ of India is truly appropriate for Professor Lokesh Chandra. His collection of work is marvellous and very beneficial to any student of Buddhism or spiritual aspirant! From his work, it is evident that Professor Lakesh has deep expertise in language with unequivocal understanding of the Buddhist text as well as superior knowledge of Buddhist iconography. I am at awe! I certainly look forward to reading some of Professor’s work. Thank you for this wonderful sharing, Rinpoche, Joy.

Stunning…… this very famous Vajrayogini – Ugra Tara temple situated in Sankhu, Kathmandu, Nepal full of history, legends and culture . This temple seem to have the greatest power of blessings for everyone who visited and seeing it. Vajrayogini is a Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom and for the Buddhist is also known as Ugra Tara . This temple was built dedicated to the goddess Vajrayogini ,has attracted thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Sankhu is one of the sacred power places of Vajrayogini in Nepal . I do hope I can visit this beautiful sacred temple one day. Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for sharing with us. I loved looking at those beautiful pictures as shared.

Wow …having the Chinese New Year and the Tibetan New Year same day . That’s wonderful, auspicious and rare whereby everyone will be enjoying at the same time. Dorje Shugden’s precious advice during Lunar New Year 2018 is indeed timely. However small or big deeds is still very virtuous as long as we put in our best with a good motivation and a pure mind. All of us are fortunate to have met Rinpoche through kechara and have learned ,practiced Dharma. Without Rinpoche there is no Dharma…….we are indeed grateful . I am glad to have made the right choice to choose what i want to learn and practice .Having this precious advice from our powerful Protector Dorje Shugden is a blessing. May our compassionate Guru stays healthy and live long to continue turning the Dharma wheel to benefits all the sentient beings. May more and more people benefits from this precious advice and Dorje Shugden protections.
Thank you Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche for this powerful advice which I will bear in mind and had it bookmarked .

Life is made up of choices. I believe life is just a series of decisions we make, and depending on our choice, we have to live with the consequences of our choices. We are responsible for our own lives, and being accountable for whatever decisions we’ve made we can change our lives for the better. The choices we make, however, determine our happiness or our unhappiness. I did not realise much earlier but reading this profound teachings has taught me many and a wake up call for me.
“What you are today, is the choice you made yesterday……as said by Tsem Rinpoche
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this teachings

It is true all the emotions comes from our mind. Most of the time we tend to see a problem to be so big which we can actually have a choice to dilute it and make it smaller. We always have our expectation on everything and once it goes against ours, we are not happy and anger arise. Therefore we should control our mind and not let it direct us to think and act negatively.

It’s so heartwarming to watch the short video. The bond between Sirga and Valentine are so strong, like meeting an old friend. This video reminds me that animals is just like human and have feelings, therefore treat all of them with respect and care.

Thank you for sharing the updates on Buddhist community from Tibet and elsewhere. All these grand and meaningful events around the world since 2011 up until 2018 are now accessible to everyone, which was previously not made widely available. It goes to show that more and more people care and are interested about the news and movements of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly Dorje Shugden events. These events also dispel the myths that DS is a minor sect – check out the crowds! Massive numbers of sangha and lay people turn up at these events for the blessing and initiation to DS Sogtae. These events are evidence that religious freedom is enshrined in Tibet, China and other parts of the world; seems like the only place where there is no religious freedom for DS practitioners are under the rule of Dharamsala. Therefore, events updates of DS practitioners gathered together to receive initiation and teachings are really very encouraging. Rejoice to all who received the sogtae!

Thank you Rinpoche for the sharing. Can imagine the situation ,the pain and suffering of that poor pig. They the many of these sows live in cages just large enough to contain their bodies. Sows have a pregnancy lasting around four months and their freedom of movement are restricted .Sad to see that situation ,hoping more can be done to improve it. But the best choice is go on vegetarian so less killing , less consuming meat.

Happiness , depression, anger, frustration, bitterness is a choice. All is based on how we interpreting each situation in our life and the meaning we associate with. To feel happy, focus on things in our life that will make us feel happy. What ever we see and thinks can lead to thoughts and influences our performance. It is our emotions that influence the way we think and behave We are to accept and the ability to adapt to the challenges of our daily life. A powerful meaning behind this short story. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this wonderful and powerful post that will helps us in our daily life.

Wow…. a brilliant picture of the two greatest masters of Tibetan Buddhism. Trijang Rinpoche was a Gelugpa monk and the 16th Karmapa, a Karma Kagyu, enjoying a beautiful relationship based on respect and trust. There were no conflict between them. It seem that in one lifetime, both of them did even interchange incarnations. There is an interesting story regarding both of them. Both enlightened manifesting again and again for the benefit of others .From the picture it tell us a thousands word of wisdom between both of them. H.H. the 16th Karmapa and H.H. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche remained close friends throughout their life. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this a brilliant picture of the two greatest masters for us and merely seeing it is a blessing.

Out of compassion, Buddha Manjushri emanate in the form of Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden to help us swiftly.

Now, with the blessings of our precious guru, we are so fortunate to receive these precious advice from Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden reminded us that dharma practice is based on our faith and pure motivation. When we do for any virtuous actions with the pure motivation and out of the Eight Worldly Concerns, it definitely will bring much beneficial not only ourselves but also many others. We should start to practice by letting go our small “self” and slowly let go the big “self”. Eventually we are able to do more that benefit others instead of only ourselves.

It’s so amazing that since thousand of years ago people already have such high technologies in constructing strong and amazing building that till today we may not necessary be able to achieve. Also it is just amazing that the mummies found in the temple were so well preserved. While many scientists and archeologists are trying their best to find out how, what and where about all this mysteries findings, I hope they use the right method to get into these place and with respect. After all , these places are suppose to be holy .

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I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

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Dear everyone... This is a good condensed talk I gave on Guru Yoga of Tsongkapa. This is the one you should share with others when they are interested in a not too lengthy explanation. It is the perfect practice for everyone who wants simplicity yet effective blessings. You can share this with more people, it will be good.

External Articles

ANIMAL QUOTES

"If you say you don't have money to help a animal shelter, why then do you have money to buy meat?"

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Eating animals is not our God-given right, but being kind to them is."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"What makes us good humans is not how we abuse animals, but how much we allow them to live and be happy freely."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"We need another and wiser and perhaps a more mythical concept of animals.... We patronize them for their incompleteness, for their tragic fate of having taken form so far below ourselves. And therein we err, and greatly err. For the animal shall not be measured by man. In a world older and more complex than ours they moved finished and complete, gifted with extensions of the senses we have lost or never attained, living by voices we shall never hear. They are not brethren, they are not underlings; they are other nations, caught with ourselves in the net of life and time, fellow prisoners of the splendour and travail of the earth."

~ Henry Beston, The Outermost House

"Not eating animals is only unnatural when we are not used to it."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES

"We may encounter defeat, but we must not be defeated."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"What you are today, is the choice you made yesterday."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"You think you can choose your life? What an ego trip!"

~ Lama Yeshe

"If TODAY you are dissatisfied, you must make the changes to create different results for TOMORROW."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

SPIRITUAL QUOTES

“If one does the recitation of the Lama Tsongkhapa guru yoga prayer for even one month using one of the visualizations for great or clear or quick wisdom, one will definitely see development of that wisdom. It is proved by experience. There is no doubt that by doing the Lama Tsongkhapa guru yoga practice one can meet Lama Tsongkhapa’s teachings from life to life. And furthermore, it gives one the opportunity to be born in the pure realm of Lama Tsongkhapa, Tushita, whenever death happens.”

~ Pabongkha Rinpoche

"I was 18 years old in 1983. That was a very special year as I met His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and received innumerable precious teachings and empowerments from Him at Thubten Dhargye Ling Centre in Los Angeles, California. It was the best time of my life. A time that seems so magical and surreal to me. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche is Heruka Buddha and I met Heruka."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"If being me offends you, maybe I'm not the problem."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Never abandon your spiritual teacher no matter how many inner obstacles you need to overcome."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Actions to force something to be permanent makes all the karmas arise."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"The dharma is not easy to listen to… because some people take it as criticism. But Dharma should not be just feel good only for the moment but for deeper contemplations."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Whether we do work and suffer but for others or we do work and suffer for ourselves, either way we have to suffer. That is the nature of samsara. So let us suffer for others and then suffering has meaning."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Those who really want the dharma to grow within themselves and to grow for others should never fear hard work, timing, difficulties, struggles, disappointments because it is for a good cause. Working for Dharma is not a prison or work, but it is purely spiritual practice. It is purely collection of merit and purification. Actually not doing dharma work is the real prison."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"His Holiness Zong Rinpoche stressed the need to continue to practice even when we come up against obstacles, and that we should continually review our progress. He stated that a happy, luxurious life was like a good dream, and that obstacles and difficulties were like a bad dream. We should give them no significance, but simply carry on working towards real, everlasting happiness."

LIFE QUOTES

"I pity men who occupy themselves exclusively with the transitory in things and lose themselves in the study of what is perishable, since we are here for this very end-that we may make the perishable imperishable, which we can do only after we have learned how to approach both."

~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"Money amplifies negative characteristics and that can cause problems.
To walk away from that was actually very easy. I didn't even consider it."

~ Angeline Francis Khoo

"I shall not commit the fashionable stupidity of regarding everything I cannot explain as a fraud."

~ Carl Jung

"There is a devil there is no doubt, but is he trying to get into us or trying to get out?"

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"If you love someone, show it by being honest, respectful & honorable with them."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."

~ Henry David Thoreau

"If I can just be the way I am & you the way you are & we accept each other, world peace is near."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"I am Asian, you are some other beautiful color. Together we make diversity so beautiful."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"It's amazing how some people have never met me or know who I am, but based on a few things they read here & there & rumours, they have formulated a new personality for me & all the things I've never done they passionately speak about....I find it funny and entertaining now. I guess we can't spend our lives fighting rumours...we just have to work hard & then rumours get proven wrong on it's own as a by product. No point explaining repeatedly. Just do our work & show results!!"

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"There's a difference between patience and laziness. Patience comes from respect while laziness from disrespect of others."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Although outwardly we have so much, we have so many conveniences, inwardly we have become more unhappy, so, acquisition is not the secret to happiness. The more we get, the more we have, the more unhappy we become."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Before we experience any pain, we already had a fixed view of how things should be. When the experience we encounter contradicts our views, then the pain arises. The pain arises due to our fixed views not so much the experience itself. So the secret is changing the views. Re-educating ourselves on our views."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"You know since very young, for better or worse, I always did the things that others told me not to do. I wasn't really good at following the rules. Even now with how I share Dharma and my practice, I just do it the way I think it should be done but I do it sincerely. Not what others tell me what I can and can't do."

~ Tsem Rinpoche

"Love me or hate me, both are in my favor... If you love me, I'll always be in your heart... If you hate me, I'll always be in your mind."

~ William Shakespeare

"One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous or honest."

The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.

Here, His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche (left), one of the tutors of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, confers one of the many countless tantric initiations on the Dalai Lama (right). You can see a young Dalai Lama bowing in this picture with Trijang Rinpoche blessing him. Trijang Rinpoche is therefore undoubtedly the Dalai Lama’s tantric master. A great master at that. Tsem Rinpoche

3 weeks ago

This is a very sacred statue of Buddha Chenresig (Avalokitesvara/Kuan Yin) that manifested many miracles in North India. Read and see more pictures and understand the background here: http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=153802

3 weeks ago

Wonderful updated version of The Promise book is out! Please get your copy. Much more new information included.

Beautiful and sacred Vajra Yogini in Pharping, Nepal. The caretaker said it was owned by the Great Marpa the translator who was the guru of Milarepa. Wow.

1 month ago

In the Lankavatara Sutra, Lord Buddha says: "For innumerable reasons, the Bodhisattva, whose nature is compassion, is not to any meat. Thus Mahamati, whenever there is the evolution of living beings, let people cherish the thought of kinship with them, and thinking that all beings are [to be loved as if they were] and only child, let them refrain from eating meat. Mahamati, meat is not eaten by anybody for any reason, there will be no destroyer of life. Thus, Mahamati, meat-eating I have not permitted to anyone, I do not permit, I will not permit."

1 month ago

At times I have to be a trendsetter in spirituality as opposed to just being a follower and that is why I take chances and try. I may not be liked always for it, but I have to do it. In this way I have been introducing Dorje Shugden to the world. I know Shugden is good and will help so many and that is why I do it.

1 month ago

Courage is doing something you know the majority will not agree with and perhaps even some will scorn you for it, but you do it anyway because you know it's right and will benefit people at the cost of your own reputation. That's how I feel when I share Dorje Shugden's practice with the world.

1 month ago

Courage is doing something you know the majority will not agree with and perhaps even some will scorn you for it, but you do it anyway because you know it's right and you are true to yourself.

1 month ago

At times I have to be a trendsetter in spirituality as opposed to just being a follower and that is why I take chances and try. I may not be liked always for it, but I have to do it. In this way I have been introducing Dorje Shugden to the world. I know Shugden is good and will help so many and that is why I do it.

1 month ago

Courage is doing something you know the majority will not agree with and perhaps even some will scorn you for it, but you do it anyway because you know it's right and you are true to yourself.

1 month ago

Courage is doing something you know the majority will not agree with and perhaps even some will scorn you for it, but you do it anyway because you know it's right and will benefit people at the cost of your own reputation. That's how I feel when I share Dorje Shugden's practice with the world.

2 months ago

Beautiful Buddha built in Sarnath, India. Sarnath was the place where Lord Buddha first starting teaching the sacred Dharma. Tsem Rinpoche

2 months ago

This is so good. I need to remember this and not allow people to do this to me anymore. Being kind is one thing, but when they are doing it and it harms, it is not a matter of kindness anymore but taking advantage.

A gorgeous Dorje Shugden painted in traditional art style of China. Chinese art has flourished for over 5,000 years and highly sought after. This form of Dorje Shugden is sitting on a seat as you see painted in his chapel (Trode Khangsar) in Lhasa, Tibet. Dorje Shugden can be on a seat or Lion. More downloads here. http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/buddha-images.html

3 months ago

Dear friends, The Dorje Shugden oracle of Gaden Shartse Monastery was authorized and blessed by both Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and Kyabje Zong Rinpoche. He was a favorite among high lamas for his smooth trances and clear prophecies. This video is a one-of-a-kind where you see the Choyang Dulzin Kuten oracle take trance of the peaceful form of Dorje Shugden wearing the robes of a high lama giving teachings, blessings and transmissions. Very sacred and rare video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pawS1TMOe8k

The Huffington Post extensively covers the Dorje Shugden issue. I had no idea that this article was being written. I was not contacted, not asked for an interview or asked for any comments, and then it was published and my students alerted me to it. So it was a very, very pleasant and encouraging surprise to read such balanced coverage from such a reputable news website. You can read it here: http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=149806

(Drepung) Dear friends, In the effort to be creative about something as holy and beneficial as Dorje Shugden, we've come out with these new and realistic depictions. One is Dorje Shugden visiting the Potala Palace and the other is Dorje Shugden arising from Drepung Monastery where he lived in Zimkhang Gangma Ladrang as a high lama. Please enjoy and be blessed. Sincerely, Tsem Rinpoche (High resolution downloads: http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/buddha-images.html )

3 months ago

Dear friends, In the effort to be creative about something as holy and beneficial as Dorje Shugden, we've come out with these new and realistic depictions. One is Dorje Shugden visiting the Potala Palace and the other is Dorje Shugden arising from Drepung Monastery where he lived in Zimkhang Gangma Ladrang as a high lama. Please enjoy and be blessed. Sincerely, Tsem Rinpoche (High resolution downloads: http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/buddha-images.html )

Dear friends, This meme is powerful. Who you hang around with and the types of attitude they have is who you will be influenced by many times and who you will become in the future. Look at your friends and the people that always surround you to know who you will become. Tsem Rinpoche

4 months ago

October 2017, His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche Jetsun Lungrik Namgyal graciously reading our Kechara album and updates as presented by Beng Kooi and Martin. He was very pleased with our progress and offers his blessings. Tsem Rinpoche

4 months ago

His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche grants audience to Beng Kooi and Martin in France. Read more on His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche: http://bit.ly/1PlaNNS

4 months ago

Recently Beng Kooi and Martin on behalf of myself and Kechara was lucky to have audience with His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche Jetsun Lungrik Namgyal of Gaden Shartse Monastery. He lives in around Paris, France. His Holiness is 91 years old and very healthy and alert. He was the 101st throne holder for Tsongkapa and was the head of the Gelugpa school of Buddhism and was very successful during his tenure. He is a strong practitioner of both Sutra and Tantra of Je Tsongkapa's tradition and a master of all Buddhist knowledge. He holds steadfast to his protector Dorje Shugden very strongly. So we can see even the highest throneholders who are masters of Sutra and Tantra also practices Dorje Shugden knowing the benefits.
Beng Kooi and Martin brought photo albums of Kechara Forest Retreat/Kechara and updates on Kechara and our works. His Holiness was very pleased to listen and offered some gifts back.
This is a beautiful picture and the great blessings bestowed on us from His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche Jetsun Lungrik Namgyal.
Humbly, Tsem Rinpoche
Read more on His Holiness Gaden Trisur Rinpoche: http://bit.ly/1PlaNNS

Beng Kooi meeting with the scholar and teacher Geshe Konchok Gyeltsen lak. Geshe Konchok Gyeltsen has been very active and you can see his youtubes in Tibetan speaking about the benefits of Dorje Shugden practice. He is a direct student of Trijang Rinpoche and Zong Rinpoche.

4 months ago

Martin meeting with Gen Tashi. Gen Tashi is a very devoted and committed activist of Dorje Shugden's cause. He is tireless in speaking for the truth. They enjoyed sharing some time together.

4 months ago

Martin meeting with the well known strong and devoted Dorje Shugden activist and scholar Geshe Konchok Gyeltsen lak. Geshe lak was very happy to meet Martin and shared so much wonderful information. Beautiful meeting.

A mother's love is made up of a deep sense of care, of sacrifice and pain as a mother's heart is always with her children. Watch this touching video.

3 months ago

Dorje Shugden & Ministers

Dorje Shugden and his two ministers, Kache Marpo and Namka Barzin. Vajrasecrets.com

3 months ago

Cham Dance

Cham is sacred dance. A dance that enacts the life story of a holy being. By participating in Cham, one is blessed to see the sacred life story of a being celebrated. This is a cham on Dorje Shugden. It\\\'s a short clip but interesting none-the-less. Tsem Rinpoche

3 months ago

The great Gautama Siddhartha meditating intensely is protected by the King of Nagas during heavy rains

The King of Nagas knows this great being Siddhartha will soon become the Buddha. By offering his own body as shelter to the Buddha to be, he honours the state of enlightenment which will be won and gains merit for himself for his future lives although he is a naga now. The pre-eminent Buddha is an object of perfect offering gaining great merits for all beings. Tsem Rinpoche

4 months ago

This topic is so hot in many circles right now.

This video is thought-provoking and very interesting. Watch! Thanks so much to our friends at LIVEKINDLY.

4 months ago

Chiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.

4 months ago

BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.

4 months ago

Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.

4 months ago

Do psychic mediums have messages from beyond?

4 months ago

Lovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche

4 months ago

This 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...

she received “one last visit from an old friend” 💔💔

4 months ago

Bigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.

4 months ago

Casper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.

4 months ago

Dorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem

4 months ago

Don't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!

4 months ago

Such a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche

4 months ago

What the meat industry figured out is that you don't need healthy animals to make a profit.

Sick animals are more profitable... farms calculate how close to death they can keep animals without killing them.
That's the business model.
How quickly they can be made to grow, how tightly they can be packed, how much or how little can they eat, how sick they can get without dying...
We live in a world in which it's conventional to treat an animal like a block of wood.
~ Jonathan Safran Foer

4 months ago

This video went viral and it's a must watch!!

5 months ago

SEE HOW THIS ANIMAL SERIAL KILLER HAS NO ISSUE BLUDGEONING THIS DEFENSELESS BEING.

This happens daily in slaughterhouse so you can get your pork and Bak ku teh. Stop eating meat.

5 months ago

Beautiful Buddha being sculpted from clay.

5 months ago

After a while, you are are numb and you just keep doing it. You don’t know what you are doing and you don’t see it for what it really is. Tsem Rinpoche

This is how the chickens are killed in the farm, they die a very horrible death.

5 months ago

America likes to police the world but their own record of civil rights is not on track. Watch this video from people of color in the US.

5 months ago

Important video to watch and learn.

5 months ago

Bigfoot’s voice captured on tape.

5 months ago

Amazing video that you will not regret watching.

6 months ago

Norma Jean

These are the heartbreaking scenes we see over and over again, that we share in the hopes of telling the stories of those who otherwise would have suffered and vanished from this earth without a trace. This is Norma Jean. Free for a little over five months, she knew more happiness than millions of her sisters ever will. But she couldn’t escape the fate genetically programmed into her as an egg producing machine. She seemed more lethargic than usual this morning, so we brought her inside to administer fluids and antibiotics in the hopes of pulling her through until we could get her in to see our vet. She couldn’t hang on. She died this evening shortly after this video was taken, severely infected from the rotting egg yolk adhered to various organs throughout her abdominal cavity. Like virtually every single one of her sisters, caged or free range, rescued or not, she paid the ultimate price for eggs (from FB)

6 months ago

If you want to change the world, start of by making your bed

If you want to change the world, measure a person by the size of their heart

6 months ago

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau visits a Hindu mandir (temple)

While on a visit to a Hindu mandir (temple), Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks on diversity as Canada's strength.

ASK A PASTOR

A section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors.

Just post your name and your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.

Scroll down and click on "View All Questions" to view archived questions.

CHAT PICTURES

Dear blog friends, you can submit your photos to this section by sending an email to tblogpics@gmail.com. Include your message in the "Subject" field (up to 250 characters only). Be sure to include your name in the subject field too!

"Pray to Tara for everything from business success, the safety and happiness of our family, it will be beneficial. As stated in the praise: “Desiring children you will gain offsprings; seek wealth and you will be granted riches; whatever you desire you will obtain”." From Dorje Shugden's Advice for the New Year 2018 http://bit.ly/2CAA853

Princess Dewa Nimbo once said that if Tsem Rinpoche was really a high lama, he would eventually find his own way back onto his spiritual path. The Promise tells the story of it.
Be inspired by #ThePromise & join our #TwitterChat #contest!
https://twitter.com/ThePromiseBio

4 days ago

Happy Chinese New Year! May everyone be blessed by Dorje Shugden and Gyenze. Pastor Antoinette

4 days ago

Burning Huge Incense for an Auspicious New Year of the Dog at Gyenze Chapel, Kechara Forest Retreat, Pastor Antoinette

5 days ago

The young participants of W.O.A.H. Camp focus and listened to Teacher Kien on how to do DIY colourful candle. Alice Tay, KSDS

5 days ago

Lively kids move their body and dance together with the teachers. Alice Tay, KSDS

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